JOHOR BARU: Police are currently investigating a fake bomb threat to a shopping mall and hotel here after receiving a report of the case from its management.

Johor police chief Comm Datuk Kamarul Zaman Mamat said the management of the mall and hotel received a phone call believed to be from a foreign man at 6.10pm on Saturday (Oct 14).

“The individual claimed that he placed a bomb around the shopping centre and hotel.

“Following the report, the police deployed 92 officers and policemen to the location at 6.15pm including two K-9 units, to conduct investigations,” he said in a statement here on Sunday (Oct 15).

The investigations were also joined by three officers and 20 personnel from the Fire and Rescue Department, he added.

“As of 11.30pm, we have managed to cover all grounds at both locations and have not found any suspicious objects, and the mall and hotel are safe to operate as usual.

“The police are still at the location to conduct further surveillance, and so far no casualties have been reported,” said Comm Kamarul Zaman.

The case is being investigated under Section 507 of the Penal Code for criminal intimidation by anonymous communication, which provides imprisonment for up to seven years upon conviction.

“Members of the public are advised not to make any speculation that could create public distress,” he added.

Earlier, several videos were uploaded on social media showing a large group of people being evacuated from the mall here.